Mask FAQ Thread - New

Well, we've seen a lot of these threads throughout the years.. So this can help reduce them:

This thread will not specifically show one Mask VS Another Mask, but will essentially show the Pro's and Con's of each Mask, and you can put them next to each other yourself and make it a Mask VS Mask situation.

First of all, let me say this: If you don't know what mask to get, keep in mind, being cheap isn't the best way to do it. Remember, these are the things that are keeping you from going blind and deaf, not to mention just being in pain, so generally speaking, for a Brand New Mask, you should look to spend at least 30-100 dollars.

Secondly: For those that are looking at this as a VS situation, you MUST realize that it's ALL personal preference. Whether or not one person finds a mask comfortable, it can be entirely different for someone else. SO, that means, in order to find out, you MUST either A. Go to the store and try the masks you are interested in on, or B. Ask if you can borrow someone else's mask for a game or so.

Anyways, moving on:

If I miss a mask, then let me know. Also, I have not worn every mask known to man, so you all will have to help me if you have experience with a mask that I do not.

SoftstreamPrice: ~$13.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): TerribleVision: Below averageBreathbility: – Don’t recallBounce Factor: LowProfile: MediumProtection: MediumStyle: NoneLens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Chrome; Various tintsOther: A very low start mask. Made of cheap, semi-flexible plastic, on chance, it may provide bounce, but it is not likely. Usually comes with plastic paintball marker kits.

AlphaPrice: ~$35.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Below AverageVision: Below averageBreathbility: OkayBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: HighProtection: MediumStyle: Very LowLens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Chrome; Various tintsOther: Another starter mask. Will sometimes come in marker kits.

HeadshieldPrice: ~$27.00 USDFit: Small to Large Heads – Can not verify, as I have never tried one Comfort (According to Most): Below Average – Can not verify, as I have never tried oneVision: Below averageBreathbility: – OkayBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: HighProtection: HighStyle: Extraordinarily LowLens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process. -- Can not verify, I have never taken one apart.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Chrome; Various tintsOther: This mask appeals to many beginners as it provides full-head protection. A rarity in the paintball world.

X-FirePrice: ~$20.00 – 30.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Below averageVision: Below averageBreathbility: OkayBounce Factor: LowProfile: MediumProtection: Medium-HighStyle: LowLens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Chrome; Various tintsOther: A mask that has been around for several years, this beginner mask is often found at fields as rental gear.

nVaderPrice: ~$20.00 – 30.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Below AverageVision: Below averageBreathbility: GoodBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: Medium to HighProtection: Low to Low MediumStyle: LowLens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Chrome; Various tintsOther: Considered unstylish due to its shape and form. The entire mask is made of hard plastic. This mask is relatively low priced, and provides all the protection a new player would want. The “pods” can be customized and replaced with different colored ones as well. Can fit Small to Medium sized glasses.

nForcerPrice: ~$36.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathbility: GoodBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: Medium to HighProtection: Medium to HighStyle: LowLens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: Considered unstylish due to its shape and form. The entire mask is made of hard plastic. This mask is relatively low priced, and provides all the protection a new player would want. The “pods” can be customized and replaced with different colored ones as well. Can fit Small to Medium sized glasses.

Spectra or ProshieldPrice: ~$38.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathbility: ExcellentBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: Low-Medium to MediumProtection: Medium to HighStyle: Low Lens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: Considered unstylish due to all hard parts. The bottoms are made of hard plastic, much unlike its brothers the Flex 7 and Proflex. This mask is a little shorter than the Flex 7, so people with long faces should stray away from this mask. Can fit Small to Medium sized glasses.

2005+ Flex 7Price: ~$40.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathability: ExcellentBounce Factor: Medium ProbabilityProfile: MediumProtection: Medium-High to HighStyle: Medium to High Lens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: Considered unstylish due to Hard Ears. Hard ears do not supply bounce, but Flex Bottom generally does. Can be "personalized" or "customized" to ones taste easily. Can fit Small to Medium sized glasses

2005+ ProflexPrice: ~$65.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathability: ExcellentBounce Factor: HighProfile: MediumProtection: Medium to Medium-HighStyle: Medium-High to HighLens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: Very popular amongst Professional and general “Minor League” tournament players, this mask has been in the tournament scene for years. It’s soft ears supply extra bounce, and extra comfort. However, stock softears are only a little bit smaller than Stock, and have unnecessary excess ranging the top of it, which is often cut off. At the same time, these soft-ears often times leave some peoples earlobes hanging without protection, but it also can be due to user-error. Can fit Small to Medium sized glasses.

Flex 8Price: ~$60.00 USDFit: Small to Medium-Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Great to ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathability: ExcellentBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: Low-Medium to MediumProtection: Medium to Medium-HighStyle: Medium to High Lens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process. A bit hasslesome as you must remove lens and strap to completely remove Lens Frame from the Bottoms. Often times people find it rather difficult to put the bottoms onto the lens frame as the slats the prongs lay on are flexible, but too small to reach and help lever in. Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: Provides two piece construction (1 bottom/ears, 1 frame). The forehead guard provides extra protection, but is often cut off to provide extra bounce when wearing headbands. The hard ears that are part of this mask are often times uncomfortable on the ears. These generally provide a smaller profile than Flex 7s and Proflexs. Can fit small to medium sized glasses.

Full Head Flex 8Price: ~$50.00 USDFit: Small to Large Heads – Can not verify, I have never tried one on before.Comfort (According to Most): Very – Can not verify, I have never tried one beforeVision: ExcellentBreathbility: ExcellentBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: HighProtection: HighStyle: Low Lens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process. A bit hasslesome as you must remove lens and strap to completely remove Lens Frame from the Bottoms. Often times people find it rather difficult to put the bottoms onto the lens frame as the slats the prongs lay on are flexible, but too small to reach and help lever in.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: Provides X piece construction (Can not confirm – have never owned one, do not know if the helmet piece is removable). The forehead guard provides extra protection, as well as the large dome on top, which protects the player from front to back, much like a helmet. The hard ears that are part of this mask are often times uncomfortable on the ears. Can fit small to medium sized glasses

Proteus/Proteus 2Price: ~15.00 - 80.00 USD (They are not made anymore, so prices really vary)Fit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): GreatVision: ExcellentBreathability: Can not verify, I have never used one in game beforeBounce Factor: LowProfile: LowProtection: HighStyle: LowLens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy for some, hard for others, just takes getting used to and knowing the process. Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: Provides two piece construction (1 bottom/ears, 1 frame). Being made mostly of hard plastic, and Flex-like rubber material at the chin, the plastic is crystal-clear in those areas. Black Proteus' with clear rubber chin and ear cups were recalled as the ear cups had problems. The ears cups can be turned and directed to capture sound in front or behind you (as well as above and below.. ). From what I have heard, these are great for people with glasses.

FX10 AxiomPrice: ~$28.00 – 30.00 USDFit: Small to Large Heads – Can not verify, I have never tried one on before.Comfort (According to Most): Very – Can not verify, I have never tried one beforeVision: ExcellentBreathbility: Can not verify, I have never used one beforeBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: Can not verify, have not seen one worn/worn oneProtection: Can not verify, have not seen one worn/worn oneStyle: Very Low Lens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: As far as I know, very easy.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Other: A giant flop by JT, never became popular amongst players, despite the easy lens changing.

Vents HelixPrice: ~$23.00 – 30.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Can not verify, I have never worn one beforeVision: ExcellentBreathbility: Can not verify, I have never used one beforeBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: LowProtection: Can not verify, have not seen one worn/worn oneStyle: Low Lens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Several Mirrors; Some tintsOther: The beginner mask in the Vents line, made of entirely hard plastic.

Vents CylusPrice: ~$40.00 – 45.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Can not verify, I have never tried one beforeVision: ExcellentBreathbility: Below AverageBounce Factor: LowProfile: LowProtection: Medium to Medium-HighStyle: MediumLens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Several Mirrors; Some tintsOther: A step up from the Vents Helix, has a “Hard TPE construction,” with breath blockers.

Vents AvatarPrice: ~$80.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathbility: Below AverageBounce Factor: MediumProfile: LowProtection: Medium to Medium-HighStyle: HighLens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Several Mirrors; Some tintsOther: Made up of a flexible rubber, the mouth/vent area is supported by hard plastic, so no worries about getting smacked in the mouth.

Empire E-VentPrice: ~$90.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathbility: Below AverageBounce Factor: Medium-HighProfile: LowProtection: Medium to Medium-HighStyle: HighLens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Several Mirrors; Some tintsOther: Much like the little brother Avatar, but instead of rubber ears, these are Soft ears, which provide a little more bounce. Often times this entire line (Helix to E-Vent) may leave the jaw line exposed.

V-Force Masks

ArmorPrice: ~$18.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Can not verify, have never tried oneVision: Can not verify, have never tried oneBreathbility: Can not verify, have never tried oneBounce Factor: LowProfile: MediumProtection: HighStyle: LowLens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy.Lenses Available: Single; ThermalOther: A starter mask that has been around, often found as a Rental mask.

ShieldPrice: ~$28.00 – 35.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): AverageVision: ExcellentBreathbility: Above AverageBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: Medium-HighProtection: HighStyle: LowLens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy.Lenses Available: Single; ThermalOther: A starter mask that has been around. Some versions of this mask offer a hard plastic neck guard, which is ideal for some.

VantagePrice: ~$20.00 – 25.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Can not verify, I have never tried one onVision: Can not verify, I have never tried one onBreathbility: Can not verify, I have never tried one onBounce Factor: MediumProfile: MediumProtection: HighStyle: Low-MediumLens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy.Lenses Available: Single; ThermalOther: V-Force’s new starter mask. Designed to encompass some of the aspects of the Profiler, made of the same soft rubber and hard plastic. Not exactly candy for the eyes, but a good mask anyways.

ProfilerPrice: ~$60.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): Excellent.Vision: ExcellentBreathbility: HighBounce Factor: MediumProfile: MediumProtection: HighStyle: HighLens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy, but the lens clips need to be broken in, first times can be a little difficult for some.Lenses Available: Single; Thermal; Several Mirrors; Several TintsOther: A mask introduced not too long ago. The spherical lens allows for a wide panoramic view. Designed after the old Morph. Can be easily modified for ones own liking.

GrillPrice: ~$90.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathbility: HighBounce Factor: Medium-HighProfile: LowProtection: Medium-HighStyle: HighLens Change System: Quick-ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: Very easy.Lenses Available: Single; Thermal; Several Mirrors; Several TintsOther: The newest in the market, this mask is very popular amongst the professional players. It has a low profile, yet keeps everything comfortable. With its special Click-Foam, you can replace your foam in a second, should it be drenched in sweat, or maybe you just need new foam.

InvisionPrice: ~$50.00 USDFit: Small to Large Heads – Can not verify, I have never tried one on before.Comfort (According to Most): Can not verify, I have never tried one beforeVision: Can not verify, I have never tried one beforeBreathbility: Can not verify, I have never tried one beforeBounce Factor: Very LowProfile: Low-MediumProtection: MediumStyle: Medium Lens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Many find it very difficult to remove the lenses in this mask, few don’t find it so difficult.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: An old mask, no longer manufactured, but you may still find these sold in some stores. It used to be very popular, and was replaced by the I3. This mask is made entirely of hard plastic.

I3Price: ~$53.00 – 60.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): GreatVision: ExcellentBreathbility: ExcellentBounce Factor: MediumProfile: Low-Medium to LowProtection: MediumStyle: Medium-High Lens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Many find it very difficult to remove the lenses in this mask, few don’t find it so difficult. I personally find it rather easy.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: Made of soft rubber, unlike the original Invision. This mask was also remade a number of times to improve it.

I3 ProPrice: ~$100.00 USDFit: Small to Large Heads.Comfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathbility: ExcellentBounce Factor: Medium-HighProfile: Low-MediumProtection: MediumStyle: Medium-High to High Lens Change System: Tabbed Lens in GrooveEase of (Dis)Assembly: Many find it very difficult to remove the lenses in this mask, few don’t find it so difficult.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: The revised copy of the I3’s, this offers Soft ears, and an HD lens. Soft ears provide even more comfort and bounce, and the HD lens has incomparable vision to give.

Proto Masks

Switch FSPrice: ~$50.00 USDFit: Small to Large Heads – Can not verify, I have never tried one on before.Comfort (According to Most): Can not verify, I have never tried one beforeVision: Medium - Fogs easilyBreathbility: MediumBounce Factor: MediumProfile: MediumProtection: MediumStyle: Medium Lens Change System: Quick ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: A bit difficult for some to figure out at first, but relatively easy to do once it is.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: A starter mask which may provide bounce with its soft rubber bottom. It is often cut to peoples liking so it looks a little nicer.

SwitchPrice: ~$60.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathbility: MediumBounce Factor: MediumProfile: MediumProtection: MediumStyle: Medium Lens Change System: Quick ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: A bit difficult for some to figure out at first, but relatively easy to do once it is.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther:

AxisPrice: ~$60.00 USDFit: Small to Large HeadsComfort (According to Most): ExcellentVision: ExcellentBreathbility: ExcellentBounce Factor: MediumProfile: Low-MediumProtection: MediumStyle: Medium Lens Change System: Quick ChangeEase of (Dis)Assembly: A bit difficult for some to figure out at first, but relatively easy to do once it is.Lenses Available: Thermal, Single; Various Mirrors; Various tints; Various FadesOther: A bit odd looking to some, this mask provides much that the Dye I3 does, with similar shape and form.

I have not owned every single mask to existence, so some of these are left questionable (they are noted), so if you have the information on them, just let me know and I will put it up. Or, if you feel something should be changed, let me know as well.

I have no information on the Extreme Rage Echo 20/20, so let me know if you do, or feel free to post yourself.

Great work. Almost everything is correct as well. The only things I'd change would be the fact that the Grill and Profiler are listed as Excellent in breathability. IMO, only the flexes, Dye series, and Proto Axis are excellent. I'd say the Profiler and Grill would be high though.

I've determined this after practicing in Florida usually in 90 degree+ weather due to it being summer and the Profiler and Grill are nowwhere as easy to breathe in as an Invision or Flex. Everything else was correct imo.

Great work. Almost everything is correct as well. The only things I'd change would be the fact that the Grill and Profiler are listed as Excellent in breathability. IMO, only the flexes, Dye series, and Proto Axis are excellent. I'd say the Profiler and Grill would be high though.

I've determined this after practicing in Florida usually in 90 degree+ weather due to it being summer and the Profiler and Grill are nowwhere as easy to breathe in as an Invision or Flex. Everything else was correct imo.